Surgeon's knot

Surgeon's knot
The surgeon's knot before tightening showing the two twists in the bottom and the one on top
NamesSurgeon's knot, Ligature knot
CategoryBinding
Category 2Bend
Relatedreef knot, Double overhand knot
ABoK#461, #463, #1209

The surgeon's knot is a surgical knot and is a simple modification to the reef knot. It adds an extra twist when tying the first throw, forming a double overhand knot. The additional turn provides more friction and can reduce loosening while the second half of the knot is tied.[1] This knot is commonly used by surgeons in situations where it is important to maintain tension on a suture, giving it its name.[2]

Surgeon's knots are also used in fly fishing, in tying quilts, and for tying knots with twine; it is particularly useful in tying raw meat with butcher's twine, as the wet meat creates similar risks of loosening as surgery. Some sources categorize the surgeon's knot as a bend, since it can be effective as such.[3]

Like the reef knot, the surgeon's knot capsizes and fails if one of the working ends is pulled away from the standing end closest to it.[citation needed]

Additional image

  • A surgeon's knot tied in nylon rope and tightened
    A surgeon's knot tied in nylon rope and tightened
  • Diagram of a surgeon's knot
    Diagram of a surgeon's knot
  • Diagram of a reef knot
    Diagram of a reef knot

See also

References

  1. ^ Day, Cyrus Lawrence (1986). The Art of Knotting and Splicing (4th ed.). Annapolis: Naval Institute Press. p. 42. ISBN 978-0870210624.
  2. ^ Ashley, Clifford W. (1944). The Ashley Book of Knots. New York: Doubleday. p. 75. ISBN 978-0385040259.
  3. ^ Budworth, Geoffrey (1999). The Ultimate Encyclopedia of Knots. London: Hermes House. p. 54. ISBN 9781859679111.


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